Beryllium bromide

Beryllium bromide is an inorganic compound with the formula BeBr2. It is a white to pale yellow solid that is highly soluble in water. Beryllium bromide is primarily used in the synthesis of other beryllium compounds and as a catalyst in organic reactions.

Structure and Properties

Beryllium bromide adopts a polymeric structure in the solid state, similar to that of beryllium chloride. Each beryllium center is tetrahedrally coordinated by four bromide ions. The compound has a high melting point of 506 °C and a boiling point of 520 °C, indicating strong ionic bonding between the beryllium and bromide ions.

Synthesis

Beryllium bromide can be synthesized by the direct reaction of beryllium metal with bromine gas:

<math>\text{Be} + \text{Br}_2 \rightarrow \text{BeBr}_2</math>

Alternatively, it can be prepared by the reaction of beryllium oxide with hydrobromic acid:

<math>\text{BeO} + 2 \text{HBr} \rightarrow \text{BeBr}_2 + \text{H}_2\text{O}</math>

Applications

Beryllium bromide is used in the preparation of other beryllium compounds, such as beryllium fluoride and beryllium chloride. It also serves as a catalyst in various organic reactions, particularly in the formation of carbon-carbon bonds.

Safety

Beryllium bromide is highly toxic and poses significant health risks if inhaled or ingested. It is also corrosive to skin and eyes. Proper safety precautions, including the use of personal protective equipment and adequate ventilation, are essential when handling this compound.

See also

• Beryllium chloride
• Beryllium fluoride
• Beryllium oxide

External links

• Beryllium bromide on WikiMD